Just in case you didn't believe me - here's #NorthcoteManor in #Devon later that morning. It is a traditional English Country House hotel that I suspect hasn't changed too much since it first opened as such in 1972. The 'new' manor house was built in 1716, although there's a Victorian wing to the North East, added later. Remains of the original building can still be seen in the grounds and there are Parish records dating back to 1592. there's also a mention of the manor as it was in 1103 - in the reign of King Henry I in the papers of a previous owner, the Right Honourable Sir Stafford Northcote who died in the late 1800s. It's had many owners including Richard Babbage (I believe an ancestor of Charles Babbage) and Colonel Gracey who built the Northern Indian railway system. The motto over the door reads 'I follow the light'. I was particularly impressed by the friendly service, the pristine rooms and the excellent food - the hotel is managed by the head chef and I'm truly amazed by the close-knit supportive team who host @NorthcoteManor. The food, which has a two AA rosette listing, was unexpectedly excellent and in my book deserves its third rosette sooner rather than later. And, as it is on the #TarkaLine - on the way to #Barnstable it's a haven for walkers and #Naturelovers #LoveEngland @visitengland #lovedevon #travelwriter #instatravel #travelgram #travelblogger #instatbn #writetotravel #instapassport #postcardsfromtheworld #guardiantravelsnaps #ttot #tbin #travelblog #bbctravel #thedevonnetwork #iamplymouth #nationalparks #devondays #ukpotd #uk_greatshots #gloriousbritain #autumncolour #jessopsmoment #brilliantbritain

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